William (Bill) R. Kirby, age 83, of Mt. Pleasant, formerly of Ithaca, MI passed away on Friday, April 6, 2012 after an extended illness.
He was born on December 15, 1928 in Flint, Michigan to Thomas and Ora (Hackney) Kirby. He graduated from Flint Technical High School in 1947 where he was the Salutatorian. He received a scholarship to Central Michigan University where he graduated with a degree in education. He went on to earn a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.
He married his high school sweetheart, Betty Jane in 1951 and served two years in the U.S. Army. In 1953 he was hired by Ithaca Public Schools to teach mathematics, mechanical drawing, and physical education. He served the Ithaca community and school system his entire career and held positions as the Varsity Football Assistant Coach, Head Basketball and Baseball Coach, Athletic Director, Junior High School Principal, and City of Ithaca’s Summer Recreation Director. In 1969 he became the Ithaca High School Principal and remained in that position until his retirement in 1986. He touched many lives and is remembered fondly as teacher, coach, colleague, and principal.
Bill is survived by his wife, Betty Jane Kirby (Winterle) of Mt. Pleasant; his sons, Kris (Betty) Kirby, and Dr. Kent (Beth) Kirby of Mt. Pleasant, MI; his daughter, Kathy (Dennis) Jones of East Grand Rapids, MI; and beloved grandchildren, John, Morgan, Hayley, and Evan.
Visitation with the family will be held at the Ithaca High School on Saturday April 14, 2012 from 10:00-11:30 followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Gratiot County Community Foundation - William R. Kirby Scholarship. This fund was created by Bill Kirby’s former students and players as an honor for his years of service and the scholarship is designated annually for an Ithaca High School graduate.